SC Rep. Mitchell gives Legislative Update
SC Rep Cody Mitchell, Dist. 65
By Rep. Cody T. Mitchell
SC House District 65
Last week in Columbia, we made meaningful progress on legislation focused on public safety, strengthening our schools, and putting South Carolina families first! Every vote and every committee hearing is centered on protecting your family, your freedoms, and your future. Here’s an update on the work we accomplished and how it impacts you.
SOUTH CAROLINA JOBS FIRST
Finally, the Buy American Iron & Steel Act (H.4709) passed the House unanimously this week. This important legislation ensures taxpayer dollars prioritize American-made iron and steel in state-funded projects, strengthening domestic manufacturing and supporting South Carolina jobs. We are putting America First — right here in South Carolina!
We also advanced the Workforce Readiness bill (H.3197), focused on better preparing South Carolina students for success after graduation. This legislation strengthens pathways to industry credentials and postsecondary education while aligning high school outcomes with real workforce needs. By raising standards and expanding opportunity, we are building a stronger workforce and a stronger future for our state.
FIGHTING FOR OUR STUDENTS
On Wednesday, the House passed the Historic Displays & Chaplains in Schools Act (H.4762). This legislation ensures schools display foundational historical documents — including the Ten Commandments, as part of an educational presentation highlighting the documents that shaped American law and government. It also allows schools to establish volunteer chaplain programs to provide additional support for students. In South Carolina, we believe students should understand the full story of our nation’s history and the principles that guided it. This bill reflects those values, reinforcing civic education, respecting our heritage, and supporting the next generation.
Last week, we advanced the Truth in Public School Grading bill (H.5073) out of the Education & Public Works Committee. Parents deserve transparency and honesty when it comes to their child’s academic progress. This legislation ensures grading policies reflect real achievement and provide families with clear, accurate information, because high standards and honest feedback are essential to preparing students for success in college, careers, and life.
SUPPORTING FIRST RESPONDERS AND PUBLIC SAFETY
Last week, the HALO Act (H.4763) advanced out of the full Judiciary Committee, sending a clear message that South Carolina backs the brave men and women who serve on the front lines. By establishing a 25-foot safety radius, this bill ensures law enforcement officers and first responders have the space they need to act quickly, decisively, and safely in high-pressure moments. It also strengthens penalties for those who harass, obstruct, or assault them while they are simply trying to do their job. When lives are on the line, interference isn’t just disruptive, it’s dangerous.
We also advanced a comprehensive Juvenile Crime Reform Package (H.4151, H.5120, H.5121) to crack down on serious youth violence and restore order in our communities. These bills ensure violent juvenile offenders face real consequences, strengthen coordination between schools and law enforcement when major crimes occur, and invest in prevention efforts that reinforce discipline and accountability. This is a firm but fair approach, public safety comes first, and serious crimes will carry serious consequences, no matter the offender’s age.
In addition, the Immigration Enforcement bill (H.4764) passed out of Judiciary Subcommittee. This legislation strengthens cooperation between state and local law enforcement and federal authorities to ensure individuals who are in our country unlawfully and commit crimes are properly identified and processed. A growing number of law enforcement agencies across our state are already implementing these partnerships and taking proactive steps to uphold the rule of law — and that’s exactly why we are working to pass this legislation statewide: to support their efforts and ensure every community has the tools it needs to keep families safe. Protecting our communities remains a core responsibility, and public safety will always come first.
Learn more about the growing number of Counties in South Carolina who are already implementing this program and working to keep their communities safe here.
Every vote we take is centered on one question: Is this good for the people of South Carolina? I remain committed to supporting our first responders, protecting our communities, strengthening our schools, defending our values, and growing our economy.
As always, I appreciate the opportunity to represent you and to keep you informed about the work being done in Columbia. I welcome your feedback and encourage you to reach out if you have any questions or would like more information on these or other issues before the General Assembly.